Walking along the slightly wet Guildford canal. The traditional family New Year’s Day walk.

Another year is here and once again thoughts have turned to New Year’s resolutions. I can’t say l follow the crowd when it comes to creating New Year’s resolutions – l find it all a bit bland in a ‘here we go again’ kind of way. Instead – l prefer to follow a single life aim, which is a lot less pushy and time constrained than a New Year’s resolution is.

My life aim is quite a simple one, but it is to be honest, to explore and to achieve in everything l do. A few months ago l blogged about my ‘Running to the beat….’ and this firmly ticked the ‘to explore, to achieve’ boxes. And, I suppose the ‘honest’ box too- in that l didn’t cheat (though tempting as it was at the time!). My attitude towards male grooming products very much matches my life aim too.

When it comes to male grooming, l consider myself an ‘explorer’, who always likes to try new products, brands and techniques. During these last 12 months we’ve had quite a few new brands join Mankind, for example, 6630, Elemental Herbology, Hairbondand with it have come the opportunities to try, try, try. I also expect my male grooming products to be honest about what they’re about and the ingredients that they contain. Finally, rather like ambition- l’m always keen to find products that better the one being used at the moment (…and of course, this doesn’t always happen!).

To take the theme of ‘exploring’ – l’ve recently been giving the new Terrance Conran Bath and Body range a try. I’ve always been a Molton Brown fan (as previously blogged, here), but l’ve recently switched to using the new unisex ‘1’ product in their new range. Rather like the Black Pepper, it has a warming spicey scent about it – but one that isn’t as heavy as that by Molton Brown. Each number has a different fragrance and ‘2’ comes packed with a clean, watery, lemony, fresh cut flower scent. I have one of each fragrance and l find that they complement each other very nicely. My visitors also seem to like it too, passing comment after they’ve tried it for themselves.

Another brand that l’m currently enjoying is ‘Milk Skincare’. Milk has been personally researched, tested and created by Michael Kilm- who, if you don’t know, is a world record holder swimming and three-time Olympian, with two gold medals. This immediately makes it a very functional product range, which is great if you’re sporty or always generally on the move. But unlike other functional products, this has very natural ingredients, such as brown seaweed and algae extracts- taken from the sea, which your skin will appreciate the benefits of after a good workout. These same ingredients are often used in SPAs because of their body benefits.

Finally, supplements. Just as l like to be careful about what l put on my body, l also like to be careful about what l put in it! After all, it’s a well-known fact that drinking plenty of water, eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can do a great job of promoting healthy skin cells. To help this along, these Anthony Logistics Inside Skin Capsules are packed with eight honest ingredients to really help keep your skin in good health. They’re particularly helpful during those heavy weeks at work, when convenience really is everything.

Of course, there are a lot of other products l could talk about, but maybe you have some that you’d like to share? ‘Add a comment’ below or contribute on our forum…..

Darren | Mankind

|

Search online for ‘acne’ and you’ll find countless ‘help articles’ on the subject, though nothing can compare to our own How to guide…(…obviously!). But, there’s very little written about life ‘post acne’ and how to deal with the scaring that comes from it, so with that in mind I thought l’d share some of my experience……

Four in five teenagers get some form of acne and for some, it continues (or even starts) in later life. Though l suffered the odd spot or two during my teenage years, it didn’t really peak until l was 18/19, when it really began to knock my confidence at a time when l was supposed to be leading quite an innocent and fun life at University!

At this time, the spots became incredibly raw and l remember my pillow resembling a dot to dot pattern, as they used to uncontrollably burst overnight. It wasn’t very pleasant and it was at that stage l decided to see a consultant dermatologist at my local hospital.

Up until that point l had been using all sorts of different on-the-shelf supermarket and pharmacy based solutions (of the benzoyl peroxide sort), but it became clear that l needed something stronger, something which went beneath the skins surface. She recommended roaccutane. This is a form of vitamin A that works to reduce the amount of oil released by the skin’s oil glands and in the process, helping the skin to renew itself more quickly.

I was a bit nervous about taking this, as it comes with severe after effects, such as birth defects, feelings of depression and thoughts of suicide. I can’t say l experienced any of this, but it did make my skin incredibly dry and nose bleeds where frequent (…along with headaches)! I also couldn’t expose my skin to any direct sun during (3/4months) and after treatment (6-12months) without applying at least a factor 15 sun lotion.

Post treatment, l found that my skin became perfect, and that isn’t an exaggeration. But now l was left with all unsightly acne scars across my face. What to do…! After looking around the internet l could see two clear options – laser resurfacing or a chemical peel. After looking at the pros and cons for each, l set my sight on the chemical peel at a centre in Birmingham.

A chemical peel works by removing the outer layer of the skin to encourage the formation of a new, smoother layer of skin which is much fresher. I remember the treatment taking around half an hour and l had two treatments, spread across a few months. It really was painless and l was able to return to work quite quickly, with just a slightly red face. I remember we had quite a sunny spell at the time, so l pretended it was sunburn to anybody that asked! I did need to be careful with the sun though, wearing sun protection at all times – but l was well rehearsed in doing this following the earlier Roaccutane treatment!

Today, all of this is now behind me *phew*, but it was a very difficult time, especially emotionally. I really do sympathise with anybody who suffers from acne, especially in the severe form like l did.

Looking back, l could have probably avoided the severe roaccutane treatment (and later on, the chemical peel) had l have chosen more effective and targeted acne solutions in the early stages. You can buy these products individually, or as part of a single, easy to manage kit. Acne specialists, Murad, provide an excellent and convenient Acne Complex Clear Skin Kit, which has some truly excellent customer reviews.

If you’d rather by these products individually- then you’ll want to start by buying a targeted and gentle facial cleaner to clean the surface of the skin from excess oil. The Korres White Tea Cleanser or Anthony Acne Cleanser are two great products for this, which aren’t too harsh for the face. You’ll also want to use a good facial scrub, one or twice a week, which will really help to remove any dead skin cells and brighten your appearance. New brand, Dr Hauschka and their clay face mask is worth a try . It has natural extracts of nasturtium and witch haze, both great for drawing out any in ground dirt, which may otherwise stop your skin from breathing! To attack specific spots, then give this Phytomer Oligopur Anti-Belemish Target Gel a try.

Regardless of whether you have acne or not, a good moisturiser is essential! Those with acne wrongly assume that a moisturiser can add to the problem, rather than help it. A moisturiser provides the skin with a much needed drink, which we all need when we’re feeling dry (which is what most acne products leave the skin feeling). This REN ClearCalm 3 is a nice, light moisturiser for acne skin and it’s packed with some really good ingredients, such as Liquorice and mayblossom extract, along with Salicilin – to really help your skin shine (and not the oily sort! ). Other suitable moisturisers can be found here >>

Although my acne has passed, it taught me some good lessons about how to look after my skin, which will last a life time.

I welcome any comments to this article, either by adding a comment below, or writing on our forum. Maybe you’d like to share your experience- maybe you suffer from acne at the moment. What’s working (…or did do) for you?

Darren | Mankind

With the holiday season in full flow and the Mankind Staff Christmas party quickly approaching, it’s a good time to pick out some of the best party survival essentials to keep us all looking well groomed right through to the New Year!

An effective facial scrub can really brighten tired looking skin, especially after the work commute. This Kyoku Daily Facial Cleanser, with its natural Japanese herbal skin remedies, will do the job nicely as the ingredients work together to energise, regenerate and sooth your skin.

Pre-party drinks can be a good way to ease your body into the night ahead, but don’t forget to give your skin one! This men-u Matt Moisturiser will do just that, while its Sebum Aborbers will be at hand to absorb oil from your face throughout the night (especially from around the forehead area), leaving you with a terrific matt finish from the start through to the end.

To reduce any fine lines and wrinkles, then you’ll be wanting this Skin Doctors Instant Face Lift. It’s a five minute face lift, where the active ingredients of Liftensyl, Argatensul and Easylliance work together to really stretch the skin, making your skin look much younger- even if you might not feel it.

If you’re feeling tired and don’t fancy spending the night visiting the toilet (having drunk too much coffee), then your solution could this 5 Hour Energy Shot, from MyProtein. I agree, that it might ‘initially’ look quite pricey- but when you consider that it’s the equivalent of three premium coffees and contains absolutely no sugar (unlike cheaper off the shelf energy drinks), you quickly realise that you pay for the quality and the explosion of energy it’ll give to see you through the night!


No night would be complete without a good fragrance. Personally, l like to use nice, deep scents at night and this John Varvatos Classic Eau de Toilette Spray delivers nicely, while lasting long enough to see you through the early parts, when it most matters! It’s also Exclusive to Mankind, so there’s a good chance it will really set you apart from the crowd!

Finally, hair. There’s no denying that this is an important part of the party look and yet, it’s also the most difficult to recommend products for because like skin, it’s all very different. For a good all-rounder, l suggest the Lock Stock Recharge range if you want a product which will last a small age, while also being incredibly deep cleansing- especially important ( if, like me) you use hair product!

Now all what’s left to sort out are the clothes, but l best leave it there!

Do you have some of your own party grooming favourites? ‘Add a comment’ and share….

Darren | Mankind

Sophistication and luxury doesn’t just apply to some of the brands on Mankind,but also to our latest competition. Starting today, we’re offering two tickets to attend Stompin’ At The Savoy- a prize worth over £2600!

You (..you will be entering, right…?) and a friend could enjoy a night of exclusivity, service and the opportunity to be part of a truly unique experience- which will begin with a champagne reception and canapés at The Savoy Hotel’s glamorous River Room, followed by a sumptuous four-course dinner in the lavish Lancaster Room. Just before Big Ben chimes at midnight, they’ll be a champagne toast and the chance to see in the New Year with a first class view of the most amazing fireworks over the Thames.

Holidays are coming and there’s a chain of Coca Cola trucks busy driving through snowy landscapes and bringing delight to everybody they pass. It would be nice if they could spread the same joy around here in Farnborough, but l suppose the magic would be quickly dashed by them stopping and starting at the many roundabouts!


Of course, the holidays are much more than Coca Cola trucks. For me, it’s about togetherness and it’s a great time to reconnect with close family and friends. It’s often the time l do a lot of travelling and if l’m not careful, l can find myself running out of the products l use most often!

Rather like a squirrel preparing for winter, l’ve found myself stock piling some of my favourite products. As you can see from the photo, l’m quite the fan of Molton Brown. There’s something very comforting about their Black Pepper at this of the year and l can’t get enough of it. It also has a great shelf appeal for friends and family who visit.

The Anthony Logistics Clay Mask and American Crew Fiber are two other ‘regulars’ in my grooming cabinet. If you haven’t tried the mask, l do recommend it. It’s a great all round grime buster and a great treat after the daily week commute. I apply it once a week, usually every Friday evening, so my skin is fresh and awake ahead of any weekend. I always get a few comments of how well l look, so it must be doing something right!


Alongside the regulars, l’ve recently started to try the Aesop Parsley Seed cleanser. Fans of Aesop will know that this is a new addition to their range. I apply this every day and l like it for its light foamy texture, which l missed when previously using the Anthony Logistics Algae Cleanser. This also has a pleasant, but in no way overpowering scent of liquorice, yum!

With these and other grooming products packed, l like to think l’m well prepared for holiday travelling. However, there is one vital thing missing- the presents.

Working for Mankind, there’s an expectation from my friends and family that l’ll buy them grooming and beauty gifts of some sort. Two gifts l’m buying this year are the luxurious Acqua Di Parma Colonia Intensa Gift Set and the German engineered, Merkur Futur Brushed Steel Razor. Both are great presents and come with the usual Free Worldwide Delivery or Express Next Day Delivery, which is always helpful for extra peace of mind at this time of the year!

Of course, there are a few more presents lined up, but worried that friends and family could well be reading this- l will stop here to avoid ruining any more surprises!

Darren | Mankind
]]> http://blog.mankind.co.uk/684/holidays-are-coming%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 http://blog.mankind.co.uk/663/running-to-the-beat/ http://blog.mankind.co.uk/663/running-to-the-beat/#comments Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:22:53 +0000 Darren at Mankind http://blog.mankind.co.uk/?p=663 Every year l like to challenge myself to succeed in something outside my comfort zone because as the saying goes- life is too short! This Sunday l’ll be completing my challenge for 2011 – a half ‘music’ marathon, having previously hiked for a week across Bavaria, sailed in a yacht across the Channel and tandem skydived 10,000ft in Whitchurch. The event itself- read the rest of “Running To The Beat”]]>

Every year l like to challenge myself to succeed in something outside my comfort zone because as the saying goes- life is too short! This Sunday l’ll be completing my challenge for 2011 – a half ‘music’ marathon, having previously hiked for a week across Bavaria, sailed in a yacht across the Channel and tandem skydived 10,000ft in Whitchurch.

The event itself- sponsored by Nike, is held in London and features Radio 1 DJs and music artists along the route, which passes by some spectacular London landmarks. I’ve never run through London before (although, any trip down Oxford Street sometimes feels like it!!), and this makes it quite a special event for me to look forward to.

These last few months have been spent in the gym and nursing the injuries and pains that come with it. I have to say the Jack Black Dragon Ice Relief & Recovery Balm has been absolutely brilliant for relieving pain, especially at the start of my training when my body was still trying to adjust following the annual Christmas binge. It seems to last forever too because you only need to use a tiny amount to reap the benefits! I also recommend these 12 pack isotonic drinks from Myprotein. I find these energy boosting drinks to be incredibly expensive to buy at the gym, yet inconvenient to buy from the supermarket (small packs of four & heavy to carry), so it’s great that Mankind now stock these in bulk and they’re quite the steal when you consider the 5% loyalty cashback. Finally, the Clinique Happy For Men Body & Hair Wash is a quality 2 in 1 hair and body wash, which packs a light citrus scent to get me feeling great, after a good work out.

However, even with the best preparation and quality grooming products by my side, l just know l’ll still end up looking like one of the characters in the below video. That office lift better be working next Monday!

Darren | Mankind

The summer sunshine has been pumping out the heat. Those long luxurious days in the sun may be relaxing, but may also take its toll on your skin. Despite every precaution you take to ensure your skin’s summer survival, one step still remains. Take your relaxation to another level with a luscious Deep Pore Cleansing Clay by Anthony Logistics for Men. Treat your skin to a total renewal with this mask that washes away leftover impurities from your busy summer days.


Get rid of the greasy leftovers of your sun-filled days with this simple and quick product. The mask utilizes great ingredients including softening Apricot Kernel Oil that won’t leave residue, as well as Calendula which calms and heals to soothe your skin. Get even more nourishment from Vitamins A, C, and E which retain moisture and elasticity in the skin. Finally, Grapefruit and Lime Oil give this mask a little extra boost to tone and awaken your skin, revealing a fresh, relaxed face!

From Anthony Logistics

It’s another sunny day outside and you want to take full advantage of it, but you’re afraid of what exposure to the sun’s harmful UV-rays will do to your skin. Well, whether you’re the casual outdoorsman or a habitual sun-bather, it’s important to stay protected from the sun. That’s why using Anthony Logistics Oil Free Facial Lotion with SPF-15 can go a long way. With natural ingredients like Aloe Vera and Glycerin it helps soothe, heal and moisturize skin to keep it looking and feeling fresh. And it’s equipped with an SPF-15 for those quick moments you’re in the sun or out all day long.

Ok, so your face is taken care of, but the overwhelming dry heat can also wreak havoc on your lips.  Guess what, we’ve got you covered again.  The Sun Stick is perfect for relieving that most sensitive part of your face.  It contains a skin-softening agent, Beeswax, to keep your lips from hardening.  Safflower Seed Oil also helps rehydrate your lips to prevent them from any drying and cracking.  Apply the Sun Stick and let one of the many natural ingredients and SPF-15 soothe and protect your lips.  That’s one less thing to think about.

With instant relief and peeling prevention, you can now enjoy a good nights rest.  Just remember to apply the preventative lotions tomorrow, and you might come out feeling like Mr. Fantastic.

By Anthony Logistics

Watch any news channel, such as Sky News, and cuts are now as much of a regular feature as the weather (and sometimes equally as grey). Households and businesses alike are trying to find savings, often by cutting expenditure on those non-essential items. This begs the question, how is it affecting our spend on male grooming?

I don’t know about you, but there are certain items which l definitely couldn’t cut back on as part of my grooming routine, for example, my Decleor Skin Energiser Fluid . I was also surprised to read an article from a well-respected market research agency, which found that in this economic climate, more men than ever are shunning the conditioner in its entirety or opting for cheaper brands.

This is quite bazar, as the shampoo and conditioner are a bit like the strawberries and cream l was eating yesterday. Both do different things, but both complement each other and are rather bland on their own! Of course, a high quality conditioner is rather like an investment for your hair, keeping it well-nourished and providing targeted solutions to keep your hair under control – keeping us looking and feeling good in the office or playing on the pitch.

It begs the question, what grooming product do you fly the flag for and just couldn’t live without? Hmmmmm…..

Darren | Mankind.co.uk

Three weeks ago a good friend of mine became a dad for the first time. Good news for him: bad news, unfortunately, for his looks! As the weeks have passed and the lack of sleep has caught up with him he’s had scores of people commenting on how exhausted he looks. Of course, plenty of men are in the same situation, so this week I thought I’d provide a few tips for new dads on how to tackle the main signs of all-out exhaustion…

DARK CIRCLES

What to do: Try necking a pint of water before bed  each night to maintain hydration and make sure it’s at room temperature  – our bodies find it harder to absorb the chilled stuff. If, after a week you still look like you’ve gone six rounds with David Haye, invest in an eye cream containing light-diffusing particles to reduce the appearance of the dark circles through a little optical trickery. I like Dermalogica’s Total Eye Care.  Gently tap the cream  around the socket and you’ll also help eliminate toxins from the eye area.

EYE BAGS

What to do: Whack something cold onto them to constrict the blood vessels and reduce the swelling (Menscience Eye Gel Mask is perfect). A good eye product will help too though remember that gels tend to be better for eye bags than creams as they’re lighter and more cooling.  Ren’s Active 7 Eye Maintenance Gel is perfect as it also contains Vitamin P to combat the darkness itself.

GREY COMPLEXION

What to do: Remove dead skin cells with a facial scrub. This is the key to brightening up dull skin and is the best fix for tired skin there is. Simply exfoliate twice a week with a scrub like Zirh’s Face Reviver Scrub, applying with gentle circular motions and avoiding the delicate eye area.

SPOTS

What to do: Both a lack of sleep and stress can trigger outbreaks of spots so knock them out before they become a problem by upgrading to an anti-bacterial face wash at times of stress. Try Anthony Logistics Acne Cleanser, which contains Salicylic Acid  to help prevent knock the dreaded zits on the head before they get chance to come to one!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Fans of Lab Series will have noticed that there is a brand new product in the new MAX LS premium skincare range designed to be used at night. The Overnight Renewal Serum is actually one of my favourite products from the new line up and for a number of reasons.

Firstly, I’m a great believer in doing anything to make grooming easier. And whilst I know it means adding another product to your regime what could be simpler than slapping on something that effectively improves your looks while you kip?

For those of you skeptical about the need for a night cream or serum let me point out that numerous studies have shown that the optimum time for the skin to repair itself is between 11pm and 3am and that the skin’s oxygen consumption and blood flow increase during the night as it effectively switches into repair and regenerate mode. No wonder then, that this is a good time to feed it the essential nutrients it needs for these processes. Since water-loss through the skin tends to be higher at night too it’s also a good time to hydrate and moisturise.

The Lab Series Overnight Renewal Serum is designed to trigger the renewal process, accelerate cell turnover and generally improve the look of your skin in time for the morning. Think of it as a nighttime support system for your skin and you get the picture. I like it too for its light, easily absorbed texture – important in a product you apply just before hitting the sack. As a serum it’s potent stuff so don’t overdo it (a small blob massaged in thoroughly with your fingertips is sufficient) but do give it a go. Sure, it’s an investment purchase but it’s one I reckon you certainly don’t need to, er, ‘sleep on’ before making.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Wednesday 9th March is No Smoking Day and many of the 66% of smokers who say they’re desperate to quit will be having a go at kicking the habit. As an ex-smoker myself I know how hard it can be but also how rewarding giving up is too, so I wish everyone intending to make that particular Wednesday the last day they smoke the very best of luck.

Smoking, as we know, carries huge health risks (I saw in the inside of a lung ward this summer due to a relative being ill and it was pretty terrifying) but it also has a hugely detrimental affect  on your appearance too. As well the smell and nicotene fingers  - never a good look! –  it can play havoc with your skin.

Not only does drawing on cigarettes create wrinkles around the mouth, studies have shown that smokers have a higher concentration of an enzyme called matrix metalloproteinase 1 in their blood. This enzyme destroys the skin’s collagen and that means – you guessed it –  more wrinkles!

It’s bad for your bonce too. In fact, according to a study by Harvard School of Public Health in America, smoking not only increases levels of the hormones that trigger hair loss, it also constricts the tiny blood vessels that supply the scalp, quite literally starving your hair of nutrients.

So if you want to live longer – and look younger – it might be time to say goodbye to the smokes. For more advice go to www.nosmokingday.org.uk

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Ah, ‘tis the season to by jolly. But if, like me you have a nasty habit of being a little too jolly once the port is opened I thought I’d offer a few festive-themed remedies as my parting post for 2010…

Skin looking as exhausted as you feel? Then try… Elemis S.O.S Survival Cream. One of my favourite skin saviours, this specially formulated moisturiser is brilliant for revitalizing tired, dull skin and also contains festive Myrrh for its healing properties.

In need of an antioxidant boost? The try… Perricone MD Super Berry Powder with Acai – 30 day supplement.

Cranberries might taste fantastic with your Christmas turkey but they also happen to have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for your skin too. This daily supplement is packed with antioxidant berries (as well as the festive favourite it also has blueberries, raspberries and blackberries) and is the perfect  tonic for boosting skin and giving your body a sense of well-being after all the over-indulgence associated with this time of your.

Fancy a nighttime recovery solution? Then slap on…Ren Frankincense Revitalizing Night Cream. I mean, really, what could be more appropriate at this time of year than this award-winning night cream, infused with Frankincense to improve the appearance of wrinkles and help repair the skin while you kip/pass out.

So there you have my three festive-themed skin savers. Hope they help to keep you looking vaguely normal!

Wishing you all a fantastic Christmas and Holiday season.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Every year Men’s Health magazine asks its readers to vote for their favourite grooming products. Thousands of ordinary blokes vote and so I always think of the winners and ‘highly commendeds’ as being a good gauge of what’s hot out there at the moment, grooming-wise. And this year, a raft of products stocked here on Mankind received prestigious gongs or were esteemed runners up so if you’re looking for award-winning grooming how about including some of these in your daily routine?

Winner, Best Anti-Ageing Product: Lab Series MAX-LS Age-Less Face Cream (Highly Commended: Clinique Age Defense Hydrator SPF15)

Winner, Best Bodycare Product: Molton Brown Re-Charge Black Pepper Body Wash (Highly Commended: Biotherm Homme Aqua-Fitness All-in-One Shower Gel)

Highly Commended, Best Classic Fragrance: Acqua Di Parma Colonia Eau De Cologne Spray

Winner, Best Contemporary Fragrance: Armani Code

Highly Commended, Best Eyecare Product: Clinique Skin Supplies for Men Age Defense for Eyes SPF15

Highly Commended, Best Facial Wash/scrub: Clinique Skin Supplies for Men Face Scrub  & Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Winner, Best Grooming Gadget: Gillette Fusion Razor

Winner, Best Haircare Product: American Crew Fiber

Winner, Best Moisturiser: Clinique Skin Supplies For Men M Lotion

Highly Commended, Best Specialist Product: Zirh Deep Cleansing Clay Mask & Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 SPF4

Highly Commended, Best Post-Shave Product: Lab Series for Men Triple Benefit Post-Shave Remedy

Winner: Best Shave Cream/Gel: Clinique M Shave Aloe Gel (Highly Commended: Geo F Trumper Shave Cream – Sandalwood)

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

As reluctant as I am to blow my own trumpet, I like to think I have impeccable taste when it comes to men’s fragrances. So I was thrilled to learn that Mankind are now stocking scents from one of my all time favourite fragrance houses, Czech & Speake.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, the company was initially set up by Frank Sawkins in the late seventies to sell his exquisite bathroom accessories. Like the fragrances that eventually followed, these accessories combined quintessential Englishness with fine, traditional design and a gentlemanly exclusiveness you’d expect from a company based in Jermyn Street, one of London’s most exclusive fashion districts.

My absolute favourite is No 88 which took its name from the number of the building in Jermyn Street where Sawkins had his original studio. I first smelt in back in mid Eighties (it launched in ‘81) and instantly fell in love with its barbershop talciness, long-lasting sensual dry down (courtesy of vetiver and sandalwood) and cool black packaging. If you’re looking for a masculine fragrance with absolutely bags of staying power I honestly can’t think of a better one! The fact that I still wear it, some 25 years after discovering it, tells you how highly I regard it – not to mention how old I am!

It’s not the only great fragrance Czech & Speake do though. If you like sparkling, fresh citrus fragrances, Neroli is one of the best you’ll ever come across. Cuba, too, is worth checking out. It’s a rich spicy, tobacco-y  fragrance sometimes described as being ‘animalistic’ and does tend to polarize people but it’s great if you like uber-rich, warm and sensual smellies.  And since it is coming up to Christmas time I cannot go without mentioning Czech & Speake’s Frankincense & Myrrh Cologne. The epitome of biblical luxury it might be but it’s actually a fragrance you can wear all year round if you’re a fan of those rich, evocative insense fragrances. But come on, with a name like that, can you think of a better present? It’s certainly on my Xmas list!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

In case you hadn’t realised it it’s Movember again which is a brilliant chance to show off your manly ‘tache-growing prowess for charity (or just grow something perfectly ridiculous so everyone in the office can laugh at you and call you Fu Man Chu). Whatever your reason the important thing is that you take part.

The funds raised from Movember’s UK campaign benefit the The Prostate Cancer Charity, the UK’s leading prostate cancer charity.

It’s a particular gripe of mine that cancers that effect men, like prostate cancer, receive scant media attention compared to those affecting women,  like breast cancer, so I do urge all Mankind customers of  ’tache-growing age to take part. And just to help you along here are a few tips from me to ensure your mo is truly magnificient!

• Always shave just outside the line of your moustache so you can tidy it up properly with a the edging blade of your razor or beard trimmer.
• Invest in a shaving mirror  – it’ll be much easier to see what you’re doing!
• When creating complex lines around your ‘tache shave with a good quality shaving oil like Molton Brown’s Re-Charge Black Pepper Shave Oil. Since it’s transparent you’ll be able to shave with pinpoint accuracy.
• If you don’t like the colour (maybe it has flecks of grey or is the colour of copper) try dying it with one of Just For Men’s Beard and Moustache Colour Gel.
• Wash your mo often (hair absorbs odours and collects bits of food remember) and moisturise the skin underneath since hair wicks moisture away from the skin, drying it out.
• Trim and tidy. The best-looking ‘taches end on or just above the lop lip line so make sure yours is neat and tidy with the help of a gadget like Remington’s Creative All in One Grooming Kit.
• Enjoy it! Growing a Mo is supposed to be fun. And you never know, you might even decide to ‘keep the caterpillar’!

For more information about Movember and how you can raise cash by growing a ‘tache go to www.movember.com.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

It's her epilator ok? The clue is in the colour!

The other day I read a fascinating, but rather alarming, survey that revealed that over three quarters of men admit to stealing tbeir partner’s beauty products, with over a third saying they often pinch their partner’s shampoo and 1 in 10 admitting to using someone else’s razor. Scarily 7% use their partner’s toothbrush. I know! And bear in mind that these are figures for men who admit to it! In another survey, by the College of Optometrists, one in five women have caught the men in their life using their eye make-up! (I’m hoping this means concealer rather than eyeshadow or mascara).

As someone who writes about male grooming for a living I’m not surprised by this but I’m still horrified too, principally because there’s simply no excuse for it! The selection of grooming products available (there are thousands available on Mankind alone and that’s just the tip of the iceberg) means that men are spoilt for choice when it comes to skin and haircare. A word of warning too. Just because it’s white and comes in a pot doesn’t mean it’s a moisturiser. In fact, if you’re not careful you could end up moisturising with your other half’s hair removal cream (it happens trust me).

And even if it is moisturiser, it won’t be formulated to suit men’s skin, which is thicker, oilier and ages differently to women’s. Using the wrong product is like filing your Audi with diesel (i.e. not a very good idea at all, unless the car is your ex-wife’s). So if you’re one of those product thieves mentioned in the survey perhaps now’s the time to mend your ways and get into proper male grooming?

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

One question I get asked all the time is whether electric shavers are better or worse than wet razors. The fact is there’s no definitive answer because they’re not better just….different. The problem is, a lot of men try them one or twice and write them off as not being for them because they don’t get the results they want or claim they simply don’t suit their skin.

In the past, I’ve used both (this is in the days before I cultivated my beardage) and liked both in equal measures. The trick is knowing how to use them properly. So here are a few tips on getting the most out of your shaver:

1. Dry off. Skin and stubble needs to be clean and dry for shavers to work properly so use a pre-shave product like Lab Series For Men Electric Shave Solution or Jack Black Electric Shave Enhancer. This will remove moisture, dirt and oil and help lift hairs so they’re at a better angle for cutting.

2. Use your fingers. Stretch the skin on your face with your free hand as you shave – this will ensure the hairs stand upright, making them easier to cut. Electric shavers require only light pressure so don’t press too hard or you’ll cause irritation.

3. Take the heat out of things. Some shavers generate heat as you shave and that can irritate skin so tackle sensitive areas like the neck first while the shaver is still cool.

4.  Be patient. Like I said, many men write shavers off before really giving them a chance. But if you’ve just switched from wet to dry shaving your face may take time (usually two-four weeks) to adjust to the new shaving technique, especially since electric shavers remove the hairs just below the surface of the skin rather than at surface level.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

This last week I have found myself in the unfortunate position of having to do hospital visiting. As anyone who’s ever done it will know, visiting a relative can be a pretty tiring experience especially if the hospital isn’t on your doorstep (the one I’ve been visiting is 15 miles away).

By the time I got back in the evening I looked about ten years older and coupled with a lack of proper sleep and a diet that’s all over the shop (too many hospital café sausage rolls!) I’m not exactly looking or feeling my best.

So, in situations like this I call upon my fatigue fighters – a few trusty products designed to give skin a wake up call and perk up the complexion.  Right now my A-Team consists of Ole Henriksen’s Walnut Complexion Scrub which is the perfect way to invigorate tired, grey-looking skin, Molton Brown’s Power-Boost Zinc Anti-Fatigue Hydrator (I love MB moisturisers and this one contains light-reflecting particles to cheat you into looking better than you are) and, finally, for when the dark circles get really bad, my Menaji Camo Camouflage Stick.

Why do I go to these lengths? Well, if you’re visiting someone in hospital I reckon the last thing they want to see is someone looking stressed, tired and worried too. So in the just the same way that the patient has a crack team of people making them feel better I have my crack team making me look better!

Here’s to looking half-decent then!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

JB's Dry Goods Friction Free powder - good for 'you know what'

The observant amongst you might have noticed that a plethora of new Jack Black products have just appeared on Mankind. Launched in the Texas over a decade ago Jack Black has won countless awards, picked up numerous celebrity fans and has become one of America’s best known cult grooming brands.

Come winter I am never without a tube of Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm. In fact it’s so long lasting I’m never without the same jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm which has been in my coat pocket for about three years ago (but then it is an award-winning product). Still, I’m sure the people at Jack Black aren’t so pleased to hear that a little goes such a long way!

Still, other products don’t get chance to hang around that long. The brand is especially good for anyone who’s vaguely sporty thanks to the excellent Performance Ready Range (exlusive to Mankind!). The Body Rehab Scrub & Muscle Soak is fantastically aromatic and perfect for people like me who like an occasional soak as much as a shower and the Jack Black Dry Goods Friction-Free Powder is absolutely brilliant, not only for gym-rats but anyone who suffers form chafing in hot weather. I think you know what I’m talking about…

Oh and one final product I’m especially fond of – the Industrial Strength Hand Healer which is great for tackling calluses and dry patches. I’d like to say I use it because the equipment down the gym plays havoc with my hands but these days it’s digging the rose garden and turning the compost heap that buggers my hands up!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Of all the grooming ‘issues’ I get asked about the subject of baldness is probably surrounded by the most myths. I’ve lost count of the times someone has asked me whether standing upside down can stimulate hair growth (it doesn’t) or whether bald men are more virile (sadly not, and I say that as someone who’s not quite as thick on top as he once was).

And just to clarify the situation here are a few more myths dispelled (or not in some cases)…

Stress can cause hair loss.

True. Your barnet is a barometer for your health so stressful events like divorce, redundancy or the sight of yet another Katie Price documentary can often cause the body to shed hair.

Shaving hair makes it grow back thicker.

False. Hair might appear thicker when it starts to grow because its ends will be blunt, but shaving can’t increase the number of hair-producing follicles on your scalp.

Over-use of styling products can cause baldness.

False. Has a fondness for hairspray and hair gel left big hair s icons like Simon Le Bon, Rod Stewart or the Cure’s Robert Smith bald?

There’s little you can do to make fine or thinning hair look thicker

On the contrary. Getting the right hair cut, using the right styling products and choosing right shampoo can all help fine or thinning hair appear thicker. Blow-drying will instantly give it more lift and volume, styling hair with lighter, dryer products like gels, sprays, mousses prevents it from lying flat and getting a short, textured haircut can make it look thicker too.

Ponytails look great on balding men.

Come on, do you really need me to answer this?

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Protecting your skin from sun damage might be crucial in the summer but no more crucial than protecting your eyes. A good-quality pair of sunglasses won’t just protect your rep, they’ll help protect your retinas too. Personally, I like a Ray Ban aviator as you see but the important thing is to go for a pair that offer proper protection. For starters, avoid those market-stall jobbies that are often inferior and don’t meet proper standards. They might look good and be cheap as chips but what price eye health?

It’s crucial to protect your eyes with a good quality pair of sunglasses since sunlight can damage the retina and the lens of the eye, causing long-term damage to our eyesight. Look for good quality dark glasses and check they carry the “CE” Mark and British Standard BS EN 1836:1997, which ensures that the sunglasses offer a safe level of UV protection.

Then make sure you wear them! With increasing awareness of the risk of skin cancer, most of us wouldn’t dream of going outside on a sunny day without proper sunscreen protection.  Yet we often forget to protect our eyes. In fact, according to one survey by The College of Optometrists around one in seven of us never wear sunglasses at all. But if you’re blue or green eyed they’re especially essential as people with light coloured eyes are most at risk from sun damage.

What’s more, sunglasses are one of the simplest ways to prevent wrinkles caused by squinting (especially if you opt for wraparounds) so make sure you invest in a good pair, up to the correct safety standards and keep some at work or in the car glove compartment so they’re always at hand.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

According to the met office we’re in for a ‘BBQ summer’. So just in case, by any remote chance, they’re actually right, here are few simple strategies for  staying cool, calm and collected.

1. Steer clear of synthetics. Man-made fibres don’t allow the skin to breathe so wear loose fitting cotton clothes instead. Or opt for fabrics which ‘wick’ moisture away from the skin to keep it cool. Equmen’s T-shirts and vests do this, ensuring skin stays cool and comfortable.

2. Wear white. Black clothing absorbs every wavelength of visible light making it  (and hence you) warm. White clothing, on the other hand, reflects light keeping you cooler for longer.

3. Get trimming! The bacteria that cause body odour thrive on body hair and by trimming with a product like The Philips Body Groom System it back you’ll feel cooler, smell fresher and look better too!

4. Invest in a summer fragrance. Lighter and fresher than regular fragrances, summer scents are specially formulated to work in warm weather. Those that contain citrus notes are especially good because they literally ‘zing’ off the skin making it feel cool. Miller Harris’s zesty Citron Citron is a great example.

5. Stay hydrated. The human body is 75% water and dehydration doesn’t just affect your muscles and joints, it affects the brain too which is why we often end up irritable and headachey in hot weather. To avoid these problems, stay hydrated by drinking the recommended 6-8 glasses of water a day.

6. Cut back on caffeine. Caffeine increases sweat production so swap tea, coffee and cola for cooling water or fruit juice instead.

7. Factor up. Not only does sunburn increase your risk of developing skin cancer  it also reduces the skin’s ability to release excess heat making you hotter too so always apply a sunscreen if you’re heading out into the sun.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

I don’t know if you spotted it in the news last week but a new study has found that those who fail to keep their teeth clean are at greater risk of suffering from heart problems.  Researchers from University College in London analyzed data from more than 11,000 people and found that those who never or rarely brush their teeth are 70% more likely to suffer heart disease than those who brush twice a day.

The reason? Seemingly, inflammation in the body, including that around the teeth (caused by gum disease), has an important role in the build up of clogged arteries, which can lead to a heart attack.

The solution, of course, is simple. Make sure you polish those pearlies – and for the minimum 2 minutes, twice a day recommended by dentists.

It’s a good idea, too, to use an electric toothbrush like this one since they tend to deliver better brushing and have built in controls to ensure you do it for exactly the right amount of time. Another good tip is to switch to a non-foaming toothpaste like RetarDEX Toothpaste. I’ve discovered that if you a non-foaming paste you naturally brush for longer because you don’t end up feeling like a dog with rabies after thirty seconds. Now, where did I leave that toothbrush….?

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

It never ceases to amaze me how far male grooming has come in the last ten tears. Who’d have thought, for example, that concealers for men, fake tans and a neatly waxed trunklines would become commonplace? But despite all the advances in the art of ‘manscaping’ one taboo has remained. No, not ball shaving (that’s already a common phenomenon) but hair dying. Yes, the seemingly simple act of dying your hair has always been considered either naff (Paul Calf), vain (Philip Schofiled) or…. just plain sad (Macca).

But times are changing. I’ve just finished a piece for Beauty Magazine (a trade publication for the Beauty industry) about the rise of the male hair dye and it suddenly struck me how many are now available to men. Mankind itself stocks the Just For Men range (which happens to be the UK’s top selling hair colourant for men) alongside the brand’s beard dye range (enabling men top do their own ‘collar and cuffs’ thing). With products like these getting rid of the grey is a cinch.

But it’s not just older men trying to disguise the ageing process who are snapping up these products. According to a recent Trevor Sorbie survey more young men are reaching for hair dyes to cover up the first signs of grey than ever before.

The reason? Seems we’re all terrified by (if you’ll excuse the pun) not getting ahead in these increasingly competitive times. There’s no better evidence of this than the fact that a third of 20-34 year olds said they’d consider dying their grey hair specifically for a job interview so as to appear young and vibrant.

So dyes it seems, are the latest make grooming must-have. My advice is start using one as soon as you see enough grey hairs to warrant disguising them – that way your surreptitious attempts to hide the ageing process will go largely unnoticed. Oh, and always wear the plastic gloves provided. Trust me, a pair of black palms is not a good look as I know from biter experience.

Lee, Mankind Grooming Editor

PS. Is it just me or does the man on that Just For Men box above look a bit like Nick Clegg?

They might seem like a bit of an anachronism but according to a new survey by Jockey, pyjamas are back – and big style. Seemingly, we Brits are turning into a nation of early-to-bedders, with the average weekly bedtime coming being 10.30 – a whole hour earlier than it was two years ago!

What’s more pyjama sales have gone up by a whopping 96% in the last year. Seemingly, this is partly due to the fact that we’re staying in more and snuggling up against the cold (it could also have something to do with the state of British TV of course).

Interestingly the survey also revealed that over half of us like to slip into our PJs the moment we get in from work, especially since popping a pair on seems to relax us. So, if you want to get in on the trend (71% of us have recently bought a set despite not owning any in the previous five years) then have a look at these fine numbers!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

In case you missed it, the The Labour Party (with half the money to spend on the forthcoming election than The Conservatives) launched a novel ad campaign the other day – one where ‘the people’ get the chance to create a poster. And as an example they used a poster with a bit of a male grooming twist (see left). I must admit, that even I laughed when I saw it but it highlights an interesting point – make-up for men still has a bit of a bad image.

Of course, the poster is a teensy bit disingenuous, given that Gordon Brown’s own make-up tip sheet (which included advice on how to apply the PM’s bronzer and how to conceal facial blemishes) accidentally came to light last year. The fact is that all politicians, male and female, are partial to a touch of slap now and then. It is after all, a profession, where appearances seem to matter more than policies these days.

But you don’t have to be a public servant (and I use the term loosely given the recent expenses scandal) to benefit from a little make-up – we call can. But – and it’s an important but – we need to use it sparingly. Products aimed specifically at men like Clinique’s M Cover Concealer and Menaji’s Anti-Shine Powder are fantastic products to have at your disposal when your skin needs more than a face scrub to get it back into shape.

But it’s all in the usage. My mantra when it comes to make-up for men is ‘little and carefully’. Ideally, only you should know it’s there so practice your technique and follow my Masterclass for a few tips and, if in doubt,  err on the side of caution. After all, being a poster boy isn’t always a good thing is it?

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Back in January I mentioned in one of my Mankind blogs that Biotherm Homme would be releasing a really exciting product this year – the Force Supreme Re-Builder. And here’s a sneak preview of it in all its rollerball glory! Yes, capitalising on the current trend in male grooming for rollerball delivery systems (a trend the company started off with their High Recharge Serum).

The Re-Builder itself contains a trio of skin enhancing ingredients – caffeine (to traget puffiness and double chins), soy protein (to tighten skin and reduce wrinkles) and Kreatilane (to revitalise cell activity and reinforce skin’s firmness) delivered via three massaging rollerballs.

The idea is that using the massager for 30 seconds helps the absorbption of the product but also boosts circulation and stimulates the elimination of toxins. But it does something even more important than those things in my book – it actually makes skincare fun! Mankind customers will be some of the first to try it so when it launches so watch this space!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed

Do you have a Facebook profile? Or are you on Twitter, Bebo or LinkedIn? If you are, chances are you also have a profile pic up there too. But be honest – how old is that pic?

According to a new survey by Lab Series For Men,  the average male profile pic is actually over 18 months old! I must admit that even mine was a wee bit out of date until I read the survey and felt so ashamed I had to change it.

So why are we so reluctant to post up-to-date snaps? Well, the survey reveals that too – apparently almost half (45%) of us are also concerned about our looks fading (think wrinkles, grey hair, man boobs)!

Now, I appreciate this concern (now I’m in my forties I have it myself) but there are plenty of things you can do to look better on your profile pic, other than employing a little Photoshop here and there.

For starters, it pays to pay attention to the little details that can let you down (nasal/ear hair, errant eyebrows etc); even out skin tone with a product like Nickel’s Perfector; hide spots and blemishes with a little concealer and give skin a lift with a anti-fatigue product like Biotherm Homme’s High Recharge. Even simple steps like using a face scrub or mask can help show you in the best light. And if you’re worried about the odd grey hair you can sort that out in an instant with a little Just For Men. There’s even a dye for those tell-tale grey bits in your beard if you have facial hair (I tried this a while ago and it works a treat).

So my message is simple – if you’re worried about how old you look in that profile pic don’t just haul something out from 1992 and cheat –  have a go at improving your mush as it is in 2010!

Lee, Mankind Grooming Ed (43 and looking good on it, even if black & white photography does help!)